Elderlaw Project

Elderlaw Project
To get help from the Elderlaw Project, call 212-382-6658 or fill out this intake form.
Overview
Many of New York’s seniors are affected by health-related issues, including problems with mobility and may have become increasingly isolated over the years as family members and friends pass away or relocate. These challenges often have a greater impact on older New Yorkers who have been historically denied equal access to economic, social and legal opportunities and who, consequently, may be struggling with poverty and unable to afford the legal help that they need. The City Bar Justice Center’s Elderlaw Project, with the help of volunteer attorneys, provides seniors with limited economic means in New York City with free legal services for life (estate) planning, including:
- Simple Wills
- Healthcare proxies and Living Wills
- Powers of attorney
- Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains
These vital documents allow seniors to express their wishes in advance so that they can be carried out at a later date.
In addition, we hold community presentations (currently remotely) by partnering with senior centers throughout the City. These events and educational resources we develop are a source of valuable information in areas of law that are important to older adults. Knowledge is power, so know your rights!
Please note: The Elderlaw Project provides direct assistance only for the issues stated above. For all other matters, please call the Legal Hotline at 212-626-7383.
Need Assistance?
Please fill out our brief preliminary intake form (click here to access) to check eligibility:
Once you submit the form, we will follow-up by phone or email within 3 business days to request additional information, if necessary; confirm eligibility for assistance and provide you with information about next steps; and confirm the logistics required for remote assistance.
Vivienne Duncan directs the Elderlaw Project and Yenissell Sanchez is the project coordinator.
Not sure if this is the right project? Contact our free Legal Hotline at 212-626-7383.
Resources
A Beginner’s Guide to Estate Planning: Wills and Advance Directives (English) (Spanish)
A Guide to Funeral and Burial Options in New York (English) (Spanish)
A Simple Guide to Advance Directives and Estate Planning (English) (Spanish)
Essential Life Planning Documents (English) (Spanish)
Guardianships: What You Need to Know (English) (Spanish)
Power of Attorney or Legal Guardianship: What Is The Difference, and Which One Do I Need? (English) (Spanish)
Latest news
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March 21, 2022
5 Important Considerations for Preparing a Durable Power of Attorney
Vivienne Duncan directs the Cancer Advocacy and Elderlaw Projects. (1) The Crucial Difference Between a Durable
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July 29, 2021
Last Will and Testament: Answers to Five Frequently Asked Questions
Vivienne Duncan is a director for the Cancer Advocacy and Elderlaw Projects. The Last Will and Testament is a c
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April 30, 2021
Personas Mayores Tengan Cuidado: ¡estafadores del COVID-19 lo tienen en la mira!
Vivienne Duncan es la directora de los Proyectos Cancer Advocacy y Elderlaw. Alexa Tovar es la coordinadora de los
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Upcoming events
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Fresh Start Financial Education: Gaining a Fresh Start After Bankruptcy
The Consumer Bankruptcy Project will hold a free virtual webinar covering topics such as updating your credit report, tips on rebuilding credit, and consumer rights. Please register here.
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Educación Financiera de Nuevo Comienzo: Obtener un Nuevo Comienzo Después de la Bancarrota
El Proyecto de Bancarrota del Consumidor llevará a cabo un seminario web virtual gratuito que cubrirá temas como la actualización de su informe de crédito, consejos sobre cómo reconstruir el crédito y los derechos del consumidor. Por favor regístrese aquí.